TUSKEGEE, Ala. — Tuskegee University has relieved Aaron James of his duties as head football coach and launched a national search for the next leader of the Golden Tigers football program.
The university announced the decision Sunday, October 4.
Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Line Coach Keith Higdon will serve as Tuskegee’s interim head coach while the university conducts its search.
Tuskegee Athletic Director Reginald S. Ruffin thanked James for his service to the university and football program, noting that James is a Tuskegee alumnus who represented his alma mater with pride.
The university said the national search will focus on finding a coach who understands the tradition, expectations and national significance of Tuskegee football, while also having a vision for competing in an evolving college athletics landscape.
According to Ruffin, the next coach will be expected to uphold Tuskegee’s commitment to:
- Academic excellence
- Student-athlete development
- Recruiting
- Graduation
- Championship competition
- Fundraising
- Alumni engagement
- Representing Tuskegee University with distinction
Ruffin also emphasized “The Standard” associated with wearing the Crimson and Old Gold.
THE TIMING 👀
The coaching change comes just one day after Tuskegee suffered a heartbreaking 30–28 loss to Morehouse in the 90th Morehouse-Tuskegee Classic.
Morehouse scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter before holding off a late Tuskegee rally. Golden Tigers kicker Lorcan Ryans’ 59-yard field-goal attempt fell short as time expired.
Tuskegee assistant head coach Keith Higdon spoke to the media following the loss.
Now, Higdon will take over the program on an interim basis as Tuskegee begins its national search.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Tuskegee says additional information regarding the search will be announced at the appropriate time.
That means the Golden Tigers have officially entered one of the more intriguing HBCU coaching searches of the 2026 season.
The biggest question now:
WHO SHOULD TUSKEGEE HIRE?
